I don’t understand why the majority of people don’t like to read parenting books.
One time, a mom I know was passive aggressively judging me for reading the books and said she parents with her instincts, so doesn’t need a book to tell her what to do. A week later the same woman posted on a moms group that she was exasperated with her toddler and had no idea what to do with her.
Duh. None of us know what to do! HAHA.
I don’t read parenting books because it’s fun (I mean, I AM a nerd, but not that big of one), I read them because they’ve made my life DRAMATICALLY easier. Like, life changing.
Here are a few of my favourites. And for the record, I don’t have the time or energy to actually sit down and read a book, so I listen to them on an app called Audible. I usually listen to them after the kids are in bed when I’m cleaning, walking the dog or driving.
1. Rest, Play Grow
If you’ve never read a parenting book I think this is a great place to start. Easy read with lots of helpful info.
2. Elevating Child Care
I love Janet Lansbury. I was extremely fortunate to be a part of a test workshop group with Lansbury and I learned so much from her… both about my kids and myself! I think this is a handy book to read while in your third trimester or when you have a baby. It’s a good intro to the RIE parenting world. Janet Lansbury also has an awesome podcast I recommend checking out, called Unruffled. It’s helped me so much.
3. No Bad Kids
If you have a baby that will soon be a toddler, this is such a great book to read to prepare yourself. Or if you already have a toddler who is out of control or driving you crazy, this book is great.
4. The Whole Brain Child
I believe anyone who has kids, works with kids, sees kids occasionally… should read this book. Dan Siegel is amazing for breaking down the brain research and making it easy to understand. Read this book!!! Would be a great one to read while pregnant.
5. Simplicity Parenting
This book changed my life. Seriously. After reading this book I had an ‘ah ha’ moment that pushed me to finally achieve contentment. It is SO good. If you have kids of any age, read it.
6. How to Talk so Kids Will Listen & Listen so Kids Will Talk
An oldie but a goodie! This book is a fantastic starting point for those who tend to parent in a more old fashioned or authoritarian way. There’s a version for little kids too, but I don’t like it as much.
7. Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids
A great book that talks a lot about the latest brain research and attachment style parenting. A good read if you have young kids or are pregnant with your first.
8. Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings
Such a great book for those who are pregnant with #2 or have multiple young children.
9. Siblings Without Rivalry
A classic! This is another oldie but a good one for sure. Especially if you have school aged kids. I think this is also a fantastic book for understanding your own sibling relationships. A MUST READ if you have more than one kid.
10. The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting
Oh Brene, forever inspiring. Very short but very good.
Are there any parenting books you love that are missing from this list?? Let me know!
